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As Ghostbusters, we get asked MANY questions, and have raised MANY concerns as far as how doing our job goes, and judgements of our "careers" with many more will come before we retire...
However, there are some questions that come up pretty regularly. So we'll try our best to put them together here and answer them!
Q: So what do you guys do?
A: We do some very rewarding work in the community. Specifically:
Custom Gear & Regalia: We assemble, create, customize, and modify props and costumes to resemble visually recognizable "Ghostbusters" uniforms and gear.
Regional Appearances: We attend events throughout the Pittsburgh and Southwestern PA region, including comic conventions, 80s-themed events, and movie revival nights. At these appearances, we often provide meet-and-greets, trivia, and demonstrations of our "equipment"—always ensuring they are set to the lowest possible "safety" settings to protect the public.
Charitable Fundraising: Our primary mission is giving back. We generate proceeds for various charitable causes, such as "Relay for Life," "Cupid's Undie Run," and the "Ghostbusters Give Back" campaign through the Starlight Foundation.
Community Standards: As an all-inclusive franchise, we maintain strict standards for our members, including mandatory criminal background and PA Child Abuse clearances (Act 33 & 34) to ensure a safe environment for everyone we interact with.
And if there’s time... we make sure to have some fun in the process! After all, if it’s not fun, there’s no point.
Q: Are you aware of another Ghostbusters group in the region, specifically the Steel City Ghostbusters?
A: Yes, we are aware of them.
Q: Are you affiliated with the Steel City Ghostbusters or do you work together?
A: While the Steel City Ghostbusters (SCGB) are also a Pittsburgh-based franchise, we are entirely separate teams. We typically work different events with only occasional overlap. Aside from a mutual focus on Ghostbusters, our franchises are not affiliated and maintain mutually exclusive operations and practices.
Q: What are the primary differences between your group and the SCGB?
A: Although there are similarities in how we operate, there are several key differences:
- Longevity: The SCGB has been active for 15 years, whereas our franchise has been established since 2021.
- Branding: Each team uses unique franchise logos visible on uniforms and advertising materials.
- Standards: We maintain different policies and protocols regarding uniform and equipment standards.
- Event Scope: The specific types of events each group attends vary.
Q: Why are there two separate Ghostbusters groups in Pittsburgh?
A: Pittsburgh and the surrounding region are large and rich with history and legends. A single team would be unable to handle the volume of activity and event requests for the entire area alone.
Q: How do i join the Three Rivers Ghostbusters?
A: Ready to join the ranks of our Courteous and Efficient Staff? We are looking for high-energy individuals who are ready to make a real impact in their community.
If you are 18 or older and possess a selfless desire to support charitable causes while having a blast, you are exactly who we want on our team. To get started on this rewarding journey, please secure the following essential clearances:
- Act 33 Child Abuse Background Check Clearance
- Act 34 Criminal Background Check Clearance
- FBI Background Check Clearance (Required if you currently reside outside of Pennsylvania or have at any point in the last 10 years)
These credentials are vital to our mission, as our team regularly works alongside children and prestigious institutions. Once you have your documents ready, simply fill out our application and seal the deal by emailing everything to the3rgb@gmail.com. Don’t miss your chance to be part of something great!
Q: Do I need a uniform or proton pack or equipment to participate?
A: Picture this: You’re ready to join the team, but your locker is empty. In most franchises, that’s a dealbreaker—but not here. We’re pitching a "come as you are" origin story where life’s hurdles don't stop the production. If you don't have the gear before you join, we won't hold it against you; you can build your arsenal little by little as the seasons progress.
Think of us as your veteran tech crew. We are willing to help you find or acquire gear within reason, and until your kit is mission-ready, we are willing to lend out uniforms and equipment. If you aren't in "full costume" yet, you can still attend events in casual Ghostbusters-relevant attire or other cosplays.
While some franchises gatekeep against gear from Spirit Halloween or HalloweenCostumes.com, we believe every hero has to start somewhere. We’re expanding the cinematic universe to include anyone who has costumes or props from any Ghostbusters media with "screen time"—from the comics and cartoons to the video games.
The cast list is wide open:
- The Support Staff: Side characters like Dana, Louis, or Janine.
- The Entities: Ghosts like Slimer, Muncher, Stay-Puft, Gozer, Vigo, or Garraka.
- The Opposition: Antagonists like Walter Peck or Jack Hardemeyer.
- The Crossovers: Characters from established crossovers like Casper, Transformers, or TMNT.
- The "Should-Have-Beens": Paranormal IPs like Beetlejuice, Hocus Pocus, or Supernatural.
- The Artifacts: Props from any of these properties or "Haunted Artifacts" that look convincing.
We’re even looking for Original Characters. If you want to create your own OC Ghost or Demon, it’s encouraged! As long as the design stays tasteful, appropriate, and fits the lore, you’re in the script. Feel free to ask us about the details we require.
Q: Do I need to live in Pittsburgh to be a member?
A: No, residing within Pittsburgh city limits isn't a requirement for membership, as many of our members are located throughout Western PA—from the Erie market in the north to Altoona in the east. However, we do emphasize "location, location, location." We have a strong preference for candidates who are as accessible to the Pittsburgh metro area as possible, ideally situated within South-Western Pennsylvania.
For the time being, we are not accepting out-of-state applicants. However, if you are currently located outside our territory and are looking to get your Ghostbustin' on, we would be happy to provide a referral to a group that is geographically more convenient for you.
Q:Is there a cost to join or membership dues?
A: We are happy to share that there are currently no required dues to join us.
While many organizations use dues to fund research or activities, we’re delighted to offer membership free of charge right now. This is all thanks to the wonderful and generous support we receive from our members and friends like you.
Q:How do i book you guys for an event?
A: To get started, simply fill out the event submission form on our "Events" page. While more notice helps us plan better, we know life can be unpredictable for everyone. If any scheduling conflicts pop up, we’ll be sure to reach out right away. We truly value our partnership and will do our very best to make things work or find a way to make it up to you!
Q:What Kind of Events do you guys do? Do you do conventions or charity events? Do you work with charities or do fundraisers? Can we book you for parties, parades, or Halloween events?
A: Imagine a world where your next event isn't just a gathering, but a legacy. We offer you an exclusive portfolio of experiences tailored for those who demand the extraordinary. Whether you are looking to host a Charity Fundraiser, a vibrant Community Celebration, or high-energy Carnivals, Festivals, and Fairs, the opportunity is yours for the taking.
Our premium inventory includes:
- Parades and Cause-Awareness Walks
- Conventions, Toy Shows, and Vendor Marketplaces
- Ghost Tours and Haunted Attractions
- Car Shows (featuring our elite "Ecto-Fleet," subject to availability)
- Store Promotions and Movie Screenings
- Meet-N-Greets and Photo Ops
- 80's/Retro Style Events and Trunk-or-Treats
- Birthday Parties and Touch-a-Truck events
If you have a passion for the Spooky, Paranormal, or Horror, any Halloween-related event is within your reach. This is more than a service; it is an investment in unforgettable memories.
In addition to that, all you have to do is ask. As long as the job is reasonable, we usually won't have a problem with it. After all, "No Job is too Big... No Fee is too Big..."
Q:Do you perform ACTUAL paranormal investigations? I have a ghost in my house/worksite/etc...... Do you perform ghost tours or investigations?
A: Unfortunately, due to administrative constraints, we do not provide direct paranormal investigation or elimination services. However, we maintain a network of professional partners who specialize in these areas and would be happy to facilitate an introduction for you.
While we do occasionally participate in ghost tours or haunted attractions, our role in those instances is limited to providing a supportive presence for guests to ensure they feel comfortable and secure throughout the experience.
Please let us know if you would like the contact information for our partners.
Q: Do you accept kids/families or is it adult-only?
A: To join our ranks, you'll need to be at least 18 years old and capable of securing your Act 33, Act 34, and—where applicable—FBI Background Clearances. But don't worry, we love to make this a family affair!
If you have family or little ones who want to see the sights, we offer two wonderful paths: our Junior Division and our Auxiliary Member program. As a full member, you are welcome to bring along one adult guest as an Auxiliary member to assist in operations. They can accompany you to three franchise events within a three-month window—perfect for seeing if the "vibe" is right before they formally apply. If you’re looking to sponsor one to three Junior Members for whom you aren't the legal guardian, just be sure to have a signed permission slip from each child's parent or guardian ready to go.
A quick "advisory" for our guests: some of our venues may have age or occupancy restrictions, so there may be times when Auxiliary or Junior members cannot join us. Additionally, certain exclusive events are reserved strictly for members who have already finalized their Act 33 and 34 clearances.
Q:Does your equipment REALLY work?!?
A: We take great pride in our gear, and it definitely works like a charm! To keep everyone safe and follow city guidelines, we only bring high-quality replicas and static props to our public events instead of the functional equipment.
These pieces feature wonderful light and sound effects that are perfect for public display. While we'd love for you to interact with many of our props, a few are just for show to ensure everyone stays safe. We really appreciate your understanding!
Q: Where did you get your proton packs/uniforms? Do you make your own props, or buy them?
A: Our equipment and associated components are sourced through a combination of commercial retail channels and specialized fabrication methods. For standard equipment and replacement parts, we typically utilize established vendors such as Spirit Halloween, HalloweenCostumes.com, Etsy, eBay, Amazon, and Facebook Marketplace.
Regarding our specialized "public-safe" inventory, the hardware is produced through three primary workstreams:
- Modification: Altering commercially available products to meet specific safety or operational standards.
- Custom Fabrication: Utilizing 3D-printing technologies or commissioning bespoke builds from professional prop-makers, specifically BenofKent or Karnivorous Kreations.
- Hybrid Assembly: Integrating purchased components with printed, modified, and handcrafted elements.
Listen, when it comes to securing a top-tier military grade flightsuit, you really have two paths to excellence: you can hunt for a diamond in the rough on the secondary markets, or you can go straight to the source and commission a custom piece from a premier manufacturer.
If you want the absolute best of the best, I’ve ranked the industry leaders for you below. These are the gold standards for quality and durability:
- Magnoli Clothiers (The pinnacle of craftsmanship)
- Ecto-Wear
- Gibson & Barnes
- suitsusainc.com
- Tru-Spec
Now, let's talk numbers. In the world of high-end props and professional uniforms, the price tag is a direct reflection of superior quality and market rarity. You’re making an investment in a look that lasts. That said, if your timing is right, you might just get lucky and snag a premium suit at a price that feels like a steal.
Q: Can someone help me get/build my own gear if I join?
A: Yes. Remember, everyone begins their journey at the same starting line when building costumes and equipment, and the Ghostbusters are no different.
If you find yourself struggling with a specific component, please keep in mind that we have many experienced members on our team with the tools and talent to assist you. Think of them as a resource for "extra help" to guide you in building, locating, or modifying your gear. You just have to be willing to advocate for your own learning by asking questions and collaborating with your peers.
Q:How much of your proceeds go to the charities you work with?
A: Our revenue allocation model is primarily based on a 100% pass-through structure, where the entirety of proceeds is disbursed directly to the designated charitable organization. For specific engagements governed by a fixed appearance fee, we apply a bifurcated distribution approach: between 50% and 75% of the gross fee is allocated to the beneficiary, while the remaining balance is retained as a cost-recovery allowance. These retained funds are restricted to offsetting documented operating overhead, including logistics (fuel), inventory for distribution (confectionery), and miscellaneous material expenses.
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